The new year can bring clear, sunny weather or ocean-surging storms to the Sonoma coast. Either is ideal for checking out what’s new at Bodega Bay Lodge, where nearly every room enjoys sweeping vistas of protected wetlands, hills and bays.

Setting: Just off Highway 1, a mile south of Bodega Bay proper. The verdant 7 acres overlook Bodega Head, the marshes of the Birdwalk Coastal Access Trail and Doran Beach, a 10-minute walk downhill.

The appeal: Coastal oasis. The 83 rooms come in a variety of configurations in a two-story wing and small clusters of suites in Sea Ranch-style timber and stone. The five renovated, nautical-toned Ocean Club Suites offer a king bed, queen sofa bed, two flat-screen TVs, granite fireplace, jetted tub and walk-in shower, and a terrace. The large heated pool and infinity-edge hot tub, next to the remodeled spa and fitness area, lure guests outside, as do the complimentary cruiser bikes.

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Insider’s tips: Go early to Wild Flour Bread Bakery, a 12-minute drive east to Freestone, which bakes exquisite breads and scones in a wood-fired oven; it’s open 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday through Monday. The best whale watching is March through June.

Good to know: The renamed in-house restaurant Drakes Sonoma Coast Kitchen serves regionally sourced breakfast and dinner, and provides room service; the informal Drakes Fireside Lounge offers a bar menu from 5 to 9 p.m., plus the Drakes menu from 6 to 9 p.m. The closest lunch option is Bluewater Bistro at the adjacent Links at Bodega Harbour, while the cozy den off the lobby hosts an afternoon wine reception.